HISTORIC TAVERN TRAIL

ONE-DAY ITINERARY

Immerse yourself in the historic hamlet of Rhinecliff along the Hudson River and the Village of Rhinebeck to visit some iconic locations where food and life have joined for centuries. With over 40 specialty shops nestled in and around the tree-lined streets of Rhinebeck, there’s plenty to explore.

History also abounds in Eastern Dutchess County in communities like Pawling, Dover Plains and Amenia. Several historic sites are tucked away in the bucolic countryside and are not far from some fantastic restaurants and scenic hikes. 

Fun for foodies, history buffs, or those just interested in checking out some cool spaces! 

S = Seasonal attraction or activity
SE = Open during scheduled events

Foster’s Coach House Tavern, Rhinebeck
Located at the “four corners” of Rhinebeck’s business district, the current building dates from 1890 and has provided respite to travelers for over 125 years. Sources hint an earlier tavern may have existed on or near the site from the late 18th century. The equestrian-themed interior includes booths dressed out as stalls, a tack room, racing prints and iconography, and a coach originally owned by Levi P. Morton, Governor of New York in the late 1800’s and Vice President of the United States under Benjamin Harrison. The menu includes many local and classic American favorites at family prices.
For more info click here.
 

Tavern at the Beekman Arms, Rhinebeck
America’s oldest continuously-operated hotel, the Beekman Arms, likely began its life as a private home in the 1760s, catering to the occasional over-night traveler on the Post Road (Route 9). It was certainly in operation by 1802, when a map marked a “hotel” at the site. “The Beek,” as it is known to locals, has been serving travelers for over two centuries. Walk through the front door and soak in colonial charm and character including the massive timbers and plush furnishings. A sitting room with a private library awaits you on your right - the “Beekman Room” - like the hotel itself, is named for Colonel Henry Beekman, an early landholder in the area. Proceed to dine in the atmospheric taproom, which has served figures ranging from Aaron Burr to Franklin Delano Roosevelt. A barn behind the Beekman Arms houses an impressive local antique market.
For more info click here. 

Old Drovers Inn, Dover Plains

You’ll want to return, again and again, to this classic Early American Inn. The building dates back to 1750, and was once used as a romantic hideaway for Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton! The Inn’s six renovated, classic American rooms feature luxury linens and private baths. The Tap Room, an onsite restaurant and tavern, offers delicious cocktails and a classic bill of fare every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. There are several wineries and distilleries located nearby, and you can enjoy the great outdoors discovering Dover Stone Church or serene Innisfree Garden. Click here to learn more.

All three of these historic taverns are participating locations in the Dutchess Tourism Commander in Cheers program, an augmented reality experience that serves up a pint-sized George Washington to share a story about one of Dutchess County’s revolutionary endeavors. Simply scan the code found on specially-marked coasters in pubs, restaurants and other locations all over the county to activate each of the six tales told by Tiny George. Click here to learn more.

Can’t get your fill of great ales and tales? The Dutchess County Historian coordinates monthly Historic Tavern Trail events to quench your thirst for knowledge and local craft beverages!